updated 10:45 am EDT, Thu June 13, 2013

K-500 DSLR ignores color choice, opts for AA power

Pentax Ricoh has introduced two K-mount DSLRs and one mirrorless camera. The K-50 and K-500 DSLRs both improve on the K-30, while still using the same sensor 16.5-megapixel APS-C sensor, while the mirrorless Q7 uses a larger 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor than the Q10, though maintains the same 12.4-megapixel resolution.

The weather-resistant K-50 is capable of shooting at six frames per second, with the ISO able to go as high as 51,200, at a shutter speed of up to 1/6000 of a second, and using the SAFOX IXi+ autofocus system. The viewfinder offers 100-percent field of view coverage, and is accompanied by a three-inch LCD display on the rear, and compatibility with the Eye-Fi SD card system. It will also be available in a choice of 120 different color combinations.

The K-500 has relatively similar specifications to the K-50, though lacking the color options and weather-proofing. Suggested as an entry-level DSLR, the K-500 also swaps out the lithium batteries used in the K-50, and instead allows it to run off four AA batteries.

The Q7, weighing 7 ounces, is able to take shots at ISO 12,800 and includes the same SAFOX IXi+ 11 point and 9 cross autofocus system as the two DSLRs. It is able to use 19 smart effects and filters, along with 7 lens effects, and the option to overlay effects on top of each other, Eye-Fi support, shake reduction a three-inch LCD, and the same 120 color options.

The Q7 will be shipping in August for $500 as part of a kit with an "O2" lens, while the K-50 and K-500 will be shipping with an 18-55mm lens at the end of June for $780 and $600 respectively.